The 18th Ward began in 2019 with a single neighborhood soccer league serving just 40 kids in New Orleans. Founded by the need for affordable, high-quality sports in underserved neighborhoods, the organization set out to create inclusive spaces where all youth—regardless of background, gender, or ability—could play and belong.

What started with one field quickly grew. As word spread, more families, schools, and volunteers joined. The 18th Ward responded by launching new leagues, sports, and youth-focused initiatives. By 2021, the organization had introduced its Coaches in Training program, hiring teens and young adults as paid mentors and coaches—a key step in connecting sport with leadership and workforce development.

Programs like She’s Got Game followed, designed to increase girls' participation and provide sports bras, confidence-building tools, and inclusive coaching environments. With community trust and strategic partnerships—including with MLS GO, Jr. NBA, and NFL FLAG—the organization scaled its reach citywide.

Today, The 18th Ward serves over 12,000 youth annually across 22 zip codes, 17 wards and more than 80 schools in New Orleans. Its programming spans multiple sports, seasonal leagues, clinics, and leadership development opportunities—empowering the next generation to play, lead, and thrive both on and off the field.

From 40 kids on one field to thousands across a city, The 18th Ward’s growth reflects its deep roots in community, equity, and joy.